Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · September 17, 2025 · Entertainment

Raye's Journey: From Trauma to Triumph - A Candid Conversation

Raye has opened up about dating after her sexual assault and how her sister gave her the biggest wakeup call during her drug battle as she poses for October's British Vogue

RAYE OPENS UP ABOUT HER SHOCKING PAST, FROM DATING DISASTERS TO DRUG ADDICTION AND BODY IMAGE ISSUES

The 27-year-old hitmaker has been making waves in the music industry with her soulful voice and unapologetic lyrics. But behind the scenes, Raye has been through a tumultuous journey of self-discovery and healing. In an exclusive interview with British Vogue for October's issue, Raye gets real about her past struggles with sexual assault, addiction, and body image issues.

FROM ABUSE TO ANXIETY

The hitmaker, 27, previously revealed her deeply sensitive experiences with sexual assault and addiction in her debut album My 21st Century Blues

At just 17, Raye was brutally assaulted by a music producer who took advantage of his power and position. The experience left her shaken and changed forever. "I grew up wanting a 'manly man'," she reveals, but after being assaulted, she realized that her perception of relationships had to change. "Then you go through some of the...you know," she trails off, hinting at the trauma and anxiety that followed.

The singer's last relationship lasted for two years before ending in heartbreak. Raye confesses that it took her three to four years to get over the devastating breakup, which left her feeling crippled by emotion. "I couldn't allow myself to fall in love again until it's safe," she explains, showcasing the depth of her emotional scars.

FALLING FOR LEWIS HAMILTON?

Opening up about her previous experience with dating and relationships, she told British Vogue she grew up wanting a 'manly man'

Rumors swirled this summer about Raye and Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton getting cozy. But when asked about their relationship, Raye sets the record straight: "We're great friends. We've been for a number of years now." The pair have been spotted together at various events, with Hamilton even gushing over her music. However, it seems that any romantic sparks are just friendly banter.

HER SISTER'S HARSH WORDS

Raye's struggles with addiction began during her teenage years when she was living with her sister Lauren Keen. The singer admits to shielding their parents from the truth about their substance abuse. "I didn't tell Mum and Dad what we were going through," she reveals, highlighting the secrecy and shame that often accompanies addiction.

Raye's last relationship lasted for two years before coming to an end, with the star admitting she has been 'single for so long' since

However, a turning point came when Lauren delivered an ultimatum to Raye after witnessing her battles with drugs firsthand. "She said something like, 'If I have to choose between being your sister or your friend, I wouldn't want you in my life as anything else'," Raye recalls. The harsh words hit home and sparked a newfound awareness for Raye.

WEIGHING IN ON BODY IMAGE

The singer has been open about her struggles with body image and eating disorders. She confesses to wearing oversized clothing as a teenager due to feelings of shame about her appearance. However, Raye is now focusing on self-love and acceptance. "I want to treat my body with respect," she declares, hinting at the pressures of social media and the beauty standards that often perpetuate negative body image.

Reflecting on her childhood, she shared how she would wear oversized clothing because she was 'so ashamed of what was underneath'

THE MOUNJARO CONUNDRUM

Raye has even considered taking weight loss medication like Mounjaro after years of struggling with her weight. While acknowledging the potential benefits, Raye wants to emphasize the importance of self-acceptance. "I don't judge those who do take it," she says, but stresses that she's choosing a more holistic approach to health and wellness.

A FAN'S EMERGENCY

Opening up about her previous addictions, the hitmaker said she shielded drugs from her parents: 'I didn¿t tell Mum and Dad about what we were going through'

Last month, a fan collapsed during one of Raye's sets at All Points East Festival, prompting an emergency response from security. Raye quickly sprang into action, reassuring her audience with words of kindness. "We've got some pointing and waving over there – is everything alright?" she asked the crowd before announcing that help had been sent.

HELP AND SUPPORT ARE AVAILABLE

The traumatic experiences shared by Raye are a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by many young people in the entertainment industry. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, addiction, or body image issues, there is support available:

  • Call the 24/7 Rape Crisis helpline on 0808 500 2222 or visit rapecrisis.org.uk for more information.

READ THE FULL FEATURE IN OCTOBER'S BRITISH VOGUE

This candid and raw interview offers a glimpse into Raye's complex life, where vulnerability meets strength. The full feature is available in the October issue of British Vogue, out on digital download and newsstands from Tuesday 23 September.